Exterior and Interior
The 12C GT3 looks similar to the production version car, but McLaren has added a new aerodynamics package in compliance with GT3 regulations, incorporating a new front splitter, door blade, rear wing, diffuser, and louvers in the front fenders.
Engine
The new 12C GT3 car is based on the standard 12C. It is being built on the McLaren carbon MonoCell chassis, which weighs just 75kg and is produced in a revolutionary one-piece mold. Under the hood, there is the same 3.8-liter twin turbo V8 as found in the standard model, but tuned to racing specifications. The engine will be mated to a 7-speed SSG dual-clutch Graziano transmission operated by a bespoke paddle-shift system developed specifically for racing.
The MP4-12C racing version will also get motorsport-specific braking and suspension components.
Debut
Debut Test
New race car manufacturer, McLaren GT, has a busy year planned as they unveil their full team and development program for the MP4-12C GT3 racer. McLaren Group CEO, Martin Whitmarsh, took the time out to present the new MP4-12C GT3 race car and the 12C sports car in action together at Spain’s Circuito de Navarra ahead of McLaren GT’s debut race later this year in the Blancpain Endurance Series. Following the debut race, the GT3 will also be entering the Magny-Cours in France and Silverstone in England, with plans to also take part in the Total 24 Hours of Spa endurance race. The MP4-12C will also be making a special appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed on July 1-3, 2011. Piloting the race car during these events will be CRS Racing Team Principal Andrew Kirkaldy, 2010 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes test driver Oliver Turvey, and Portuguese racing driver Álvaro Parente.
Prices
From 2012, McLaren Automotive and CRS Racing will supply and support a limited number of FIA GT3-compliant racing cars based on the McLaren 12C high-performance sports car for privateers. Each model will be priced at £310,000 excluding taxes (or about $495,000 at the current exchange rates).
Competition
After seeing all the modifications made to car, the first question that comes to our mind is: Does the new 12C GT3 have what it takes to stand in front of its GT3 competitors?
The main competitior for McLaren newest race car is the Mercedes SLS AMG GT3. This Mercedes is powered by a 6.3-liter V8 engine that delivers an impressive 600 HP. It may have had a tragic start at its Nurburgring debut, but recovered quickly and ended up winning the Nurburgring North Loop. So, does the McLaren have what it takes? We’ll reserve our judgment for when we see it in action.
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